A Word of Encouragement

If all this sounds like a lot, don’t be discouraged. We travel great distances in the Spirit step by step. There is so very much more that goes on in the secret recesses of the heart and mind in this mystical and monastic way of life. Some of it is too wonderful for words. It is not without trials. Jesus promises not only resurrection, but the Cross. And there is no resurrection without going through the cross. For those who make a sacrifice of their lives to persevere, the reward both here on earth and in heaven is without equal in any other vocation in the world or in the Church. Monastic life is the special treasure of the Church. She is the contemplative beating heart of the Church and, as Pope Francis says, of all evangelization. (See General Audience, April 26, 2023).

The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage and Monastery is a special treasure in in that tradition. Some have called us the best kept secret in the Church in America. Hidden in the mountains of Northwest Arkansas numerous ministries and powerful prayers in the Spirit have blessed untold millions throughout our nearly 50 years of existence. And we have found a way to allow people in every state of life to fully participate in the Church’s monastic heritage in a way that honors all that have come before us. Building on the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone, and on all the great monastic traditions right up to our time. But we place our living stones in this spiritual temple of the Holy Spirit in a place where no stone has been placed before. It is an exciting time to be alive. Ours is an exciting and challenging call. It goes forth now to you as well.

We invite you to come and join us! Place the living stone of your life on this wall of the Spirit with us. Answer the call of Jesus Christ in this community! Come make a visit!